RUTHERFORD, N.J. and HYDERABAD, India, May 26, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cancer Genetics, Inc. (Nasdaq:CGIX) ("CGI" or the "Company") announced today that it was selected by Japanese regenerative medicine company, ReproCELL, Inc., to provide next-generation sequencing (NGS) based services and molecular information to enhance ReproCELL's translational medicine initiatives. Under the terms of the agreement, CGI will perform NGS using its recently launched Focus::Hotspot™ panel. This panel targets clinically actionable and validated mutations found in several of the most common solid tumors including breast, colorectal, and lung cancers. CGI expects to process several thousand samples over the next two years at the Company's genomic lab in Hyderabad, India to aid ReproCELL in advancing its product development portfolio.
ReproCELL, Inc., (Tokyo Stock Exchange:4978) based in Yokohama, Japan, is a global leader in stem-cell technology based regenerative medicine, with operations in Asia, the United States, and Europe. ReproCELL will be utilizing the genomic information derived from CG India's Focus::Hotspot™ panel to annotate tumor samples and develop a comprehensive database of cancer mutational information to accelerate translational efforts. Historically, tumor sample registries do not maintain data linking genomic mutations to tumor subtypes. Adding data to tumor sample registries will provide ReproCELL's biopharmaceutical clients with the ability to access unique genetic signatures, which they may compare with patient samples, facilitating the design of personalized treatment plans.
"Cancer Genetics NGS Focus::Hotspot™ panel will provide us with the capability and translational information to offer our partners access to the genomic insights that will improve the effectiveness of their development efforts," said Dr. Chikafumi Yokoyama, CEO at ReproCELL. "Our position in next-generation drug discovery and regenerative medicine can be enhanced by focused translational initiatives that integrate genomic and molecular knowledge with our core technology."
The NGS Focus::Hotspot™ panel provides a comprehensive genomic assessment of the most common solid-tumor cancer mutations, with increased sensitivity compared to other testing methodologies. Due to its laboratory infrastructure in multiple countries, Cancer Genetics is uniquely positioned to provide NGS-based genomic services to leading and emerging biopharma partners, such as ReproCELL, around the world.
"Working with ReproCELL is a clear example of how genomic insights and regenerative medicine are coming together to transform drug discovery and healthcare. This effort represents a major milestone for Cancer Genetics, and our India operation, as we continue to focus on its high-quality growth, and on partnering with companies in the region that can utilize our capabilities to accelerate our understanding of cancer," said Panna Sharma, CEO of Cancer Genetics.
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ABOUT CANCER GENETICS
Cancer Genetics Inc. is an emerging leader in DNA-based cancer diagnostics, servicing some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world. Our tests target cancers that are difficult to diagnose and predict treatment outcomes. These cancers include hematological, urogenital and HPV-associated cancers. We also offer a comprehensive range of non-proprietary oncology-focused tests and laboratory services that provide critical genomic information to healthcare professionals, as well as biopharma and biotech companies. Our state-of-the-art reference labs are focused entirely on maintaining clinical excellence and are both CLIA certified and CAP accredited and have licensure from several states including New York State. We have established strong research collaborations with major cancer centers such as Memorial Sloan-Kettering, The Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic and the National Cancer Institute.
ABOUT REPROCELL
ReproCELL was established as a venture company originating from the University of Tokyo and Kyoto University and has been the pioneer in the iPS cell business, succeeding in the commercialization of the world's first human iPS cell products in 2009 and with the world's most advanced stem cell research and technology.
Forward Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements pertaining to future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential opportunities for Cancer Genetics, Inc. products and services, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to, statements that contain words such as "will," "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates") should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, risks of cancellation of customer contracts or discontinuance of trials, risks that the transaction will not close or, if it closes, will not realize the currently anticipated benefits, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, maintenance of intellectual property rights and other risks discussed in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2014 along with other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Cancer Genetics disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.